Algae, often called "white scale," is a common irritant to owners of water fountains. Depending on environmental conditions, algae can grow back every few weeks despite steady use of algae prevention products. In many cases, white scale causes a fountain to look unsightly and may even interfere with the functioning of the fountain. While there's no sure way to eliminate all algae from a fountain, there are several things you can do to prevent algae build-up. These steps will teach you how to reduce the likelihood of algae getting a foothold in your fountain and how to clean effectively to reduce its prevalence.

The pump is responsible for cycling water through the fountain, reducing algae's ability to grow. Scrub the pump's pars with a sponge or toothbrush. If you need to open the pump in order to get at interior parts, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

5

Make sure the pump is submerged in water.

The pump cannot function unless it is entirely underwater. It's common to have to add water to your fountain for the first several days after you own it in order to ensure that the pump stays submerged.

6

Clean your fountain at least every 2 months.

Turn off the pump and drain the fountain before cleaning. Wipe down the fountain with vinegar before scrubbing so as to loosen algae and other organic matter.

Go over the fountain with a toothbrush to scrape off algae and other organic matter.

Scrub the fountain with a sponge and dish soap. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the fountain after using soap, as it may damage the fountain if left on its surface.

7

Clean the fountain's tubes using pipe cleaner.

8

Spray down your fountain with algae prevention products.

Common products include Algae Shield and SeaKlear. Before applying such chemicals to your fountain, check the manufacturer's instructions to make sure that you are not hurting your fountain.

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Tips

There is no substitution for cleaning your fountain regularly: no matter what kind of water or how many algae prevention chemicals you use, you still need to scour the surface of the fountain and maintain the cleanliness of the pump and tubes in order to ensure freedom from white scale and proper functioning.

If your fountain is used by birds or other creatures you must consider the effects some chemicals can have on their health! Chlorine, eg, is highly toxic. Be sure to read labels and if this issue isn't addressed there, don't hesitate to seek professional advice!

Warnings

Many people use bleach to clean algae from fountains, as this is an effective anti-white scale agent. However, bleach can damage some fountains and is especially bad for fountains with any stainless steel parts, as it degrades the metal.

Do not use copper cleaner on fountains with natural copper parts or copper parts treating with a powder coat finish. The cleaner will strip the protective layer from the copper and cause it to weather much more quickly than it otherwise would have.